Assessing the Impact of Participatory Communication in the Implementation of the "Linda Mama" Program in Slums Of Nairobi County: A Case of Mukuru Health Centre

Abstract

This study investigated the implementation and impact of the Linda Mama program, guided by the objectives of assessing the program's effectiveness in enhancing maternal and child healthcare, identifying barriers to utilization, and understanding behavior change dynamics. The study was framed within the context of participatory communication (PC) theories, which emphasize passive participation, consultation, collaboration, and empowerment. The study population comprises women of reproductive age (19-30 years) at Mukuru Health Center, a low-income community. A mixed-methods research design was employed, integrating key informant interviews to capture qualitative insights. The study findings revealed that the Linda Mama program, driven by PC principles, effectively increases awareness and participation. However, barriers such as misconceptions, teenage pregnancies, language challenges, and financial issues hinder utilization. Notably, health talks motivate women to enrol, and the program empowers expectant teenagers while adapting to adversity. Efficiency and impact are demonstrated through the program's support for laboratory operations and its broad outreach. Specific age-related trends are observed, with women aged 19-30 displaying high program uptake. Even adolescents engage with Linda Mama services. Women exhibit comprehensive awareness of program services, facilitated by antenatal clinics. Mechanisms for PC integration, including Community Health Volunteers (CHVs) and government-led activities like Action Days, contribute to community engagement. In conclusion, this study underscores that the Linda Mama program, when effectively integrated with PC theories, enhances awareness, encourages behavior change, and improves maternal and child healthcare within underserved communities like Mukuru. Findings indicated that the program, underpinned by PC principles, significantly increased awareness and participation. However, barriers like misconceptions, language issues, teenage pregnancies, and financial concerns affected service uptake. Health talks were identified as a motivating factor for enrollment, and the program showed adaptability in empowering young mothers and handling adverse circumstances. The study highlighted the efficiency of the Linda Mama program, particularly in supporting healthcare operations and achieving broad outreach. There were noted trends in age-related engagement, with adolescents and women aged 19-30 showing high uptake. Mechanisms such as Community Health Volunteers (CHVs) and government-led initiatives facilitated community engagement. The research concluded that integrating participatory communication strategies into the program led to greater awareness, behavior change, and improved maternal and child healthcare within underserved communities like Mukuru.